China eases Uyghur travel curbs, maintains severe restrictions abroad

A recent Human Rights Watch report highlights that while China has partially eased travel restrictions for Uyghurs, significant barriers remain for those wishing to travel abroad or visit family in Xinjiang. Despite allowing some Uyghurs to apply for passports and facilitating brief family reunions, the Chinese government imposes strict controls, requiring individuals to disclose detailed travel purposes and personal information. The report emphasizes that these measures violate internationally protected rights and serve to suppress Uyghurs both domestically and in diaspora. Uyghurs traveling abroad face additional limitations, including bans on engaging with activists and mandatory return within a set timeframe. Critics argue that these policies are part of a broader strategy to maintain control over the Uyghur population while projecting an image of normalcy in Xinjiang. The international community continues to scrutinize China's treatment of Uyghurs, with previous U.N. statements suggesting potential crimes against humanity.